Varenna holidays

How to reach Varenna

• Flight time: Most flights to Varenna land at one of Milan’s two main airports: Linate or Malpensa. From London, flights to Milan take just under 2 hours, while the flight time from other UK cities is closer to 2 hours 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly into Bergamo, which is slightly closer to Lake Como and also takes around 2 hours from London.

• Transfer time: If you’re travelling from Milan Malpensa Airport, the quickest way to reach Varenna is by train. Catch a train to Milano Centrale station, which takes around 50 minutes, then hop on a train to Varenna-Esino, which takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. These regional trains run frequently, while also offering a wonderfully scenic introduction to your trip. Flying into Linate or Bergamo makes for a slightly shorter transfer of about 1.5 hours by car or public transport.

• Price: Train tickets from Milano Centrale to Varenna cost around €8–€10, while a taxi or private transfer from the airport is much more expensive, and can range from €100 to €150, depending on the time of day.

Best time to visit Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful holiday destination all year round, but your experience will vary depending on when you visit. This guide is designed to help you plan by covering essentials like weather conditions and crowd levels, plus local festivals and events.

• April to June is one of the best times to visit Varenna, thanks to the warm weather and lower tourist numbers. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, and the sun shines for 6–8 hours each day. Spring is ideal for strolling along the lake’s promenades, hiking in the hills or enjoying the blooming gardens of nearby villas.

• July to August is the high season. The temperature often reaches 30°C, making it perfect for boat trips, swimming in the lake and al fresco dining. Expect 9–10 hours of sunshine per day, but also more visitors. Look out for local festivals and events too.

• September to October is a fantastic time for holidays to Varenna if you want to experience the beauty of autumn. Temperatures are mild, from 18°C to 22°C, and although rainfall increases, there are still plenty of sunny days. The lighter crowds make it easier to enjoy the autumn colours and stunning lakeside scenery.

• November to March is the low season, with colder temperatures ranging from 4°C to 10°C. Varenna is much quieter during this period, offering an excellent opportunity for a peaceful retreat and some cosy, lakeside relaxation.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. Learning a few Italian phrases will enhance your interactions, with a friendly “buongiorno” always going a long way.

• Local habits and customs: Life in Varenna runs at a relaxed pace. During the summer, shops and restaurants often close during the afternoon to observe “riposo” (similar to the Spanish “siesta”), while dinner starts much later. Don’t expect restaurants to fill up before 8 pm.

• Health and safety: While Varenna is a very safe destination, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busier areas.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. ATMs are available in Varenna, and most restaurants and shops accept major credit cards, but it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: Varenna itself is a compact town and very walkable. If you’re visiting nearby towns like Bellagio or Menaggio, the ferry is an easy and enjoyable option, with one-way tickets costing around €5–€7. Travelling further afield by train is also affordable.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses the standard European 220 volts with two-pin plugs. UK travellers will need to pack an adaptor.

• Time zone: Varenna is on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens can visit Italy without a visa for up to 90 days, but a valid passport is essential for entry.

Local dishes in Varenna

Thanks to its lakeside location, fresh fish is a highlight of Varenna’s food scene, alongside a full menu of Italian dishes, desserts and drinks that really showcase the flavours of Lombardy.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Risotto al Pesce Persico: A creamy risotto made with freshly-caught perch from Lake Como. This local speciality is a must-try when dining in Varenna.

• Lavarello: Another popular fish from the lake, lavarello is often grilled or fried, then served with simple herb and lemon accompaniments. It’s light, fresh and perfect for a lakeside lunch.

Meat dishes

• Polenta Taragna: A hearty dish made from buckwheat flour and cheese, often served with stewed beef or venison. It’s a filling meal, ideal for the cooler seasons.

• Casoncelli: This stuffed pasta, typical of Lombardy, is usually filled with meat and served with a rich butter and sage sauce.

Sweets and desserts

• Torta di Varenna: A delicious local cake made with almonds and chocolate. It’s perfect for enjoying with a coffee or as a sweet treat after a meal.

• Gelato: You can’t visit Italy without trying some gelato. Varenna’s gelaterias offer an impressive range of flavours, from classics like pistachio and vanilla, to more adventurous options such as fig and walnut.

Local drinks

• Grappa: After a meal, many locals enjoy a small glass of grappa. This strong Italian spirit and typical digestif is made from grapes.

• Vino della Valtellina: The Valtellina region, just north of Lake Como, is famous for its wines. Complement your meal with a local red for a taste of the region’s vineyards.

Best things to do in Varenna

Despite Varenna’s small size, it’s packed with charm and offers plenty to see and do. Whether you’re strolling through its enchanting streets, exploring its ornate villas or simply taking in the scenery, Varenna holidays promise relaxation and discovery in equal measure.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Castello di Vezio (Vezio Castle): Perched on a hill above Varenna, this medieval castle has some of the best views of Lake Como. Take the short hike to the top and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic scenes of the lake and its surrounding towns, with the Alps visible in the distance.

• Passeggiata degli Innamorati: This romantic lakeside promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The walkway hugs the lake, offering gorgeous views of the water and Varenna’s colourful houses. It’s particularly magical at sunset.

The best districts

• Centro Storico (Old Town): Varenna’s historic centre is full of charm, with winding streets, colourful houses and hidden cafés. It’s a great place to wander aimlessly, soaking up the atmosphere and discovering local gems.

• Lakeside promenade: The lakeside area of Varenna bustles with activity, especially in the summer season. Sample the food at one of its restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialities, or grab a gelato and find a spot to sit and look out over the shimmering water.

Historical monuments

• Villa Monastero: This elegant waterfront villa is a must-see for anyone visiting Varenna. Inside the villa itself is a museum made up of ornate rooms and exhibits, but it’s the beautifully landscaped gardens that really steal the show.

• San Giorgio Church: Dating back to the 13th century, this Romanesque church is one of the town’s oldest buildings. Admire its intricate frescoes, then climb the steps behind for a wonderful view over Varenna’s rooftops.

Day trips in the area

• Bellagio: Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Varenna is one of Lake Como’s most famous towns. Bellagio’s elegant villas, lush gardens and stylish boutiques make it worthy of its “pearl of the lake” title.

• Menaggio: Menaggio can also easily be reached by ferry from Varenna. Spend a few hours taking in its picturesque lakeside promenade and relaxed vibe.

• Como: If you’re craving the buzz of a larger town, take a ferry south to Como. This bustling town has plenty to offer, from its impressive cathedral to the funicular that takes you up to Brunate for more sweeping panoramas.

Activities for families in Varenna

Varenna may be a small and laid-back Italian retreat, but it has lots to keep families entertained. The mix of outdoor activities, rich history and tempting cuisine makes it a fantastic destination for both children and adults.

• Castello di Vezio (Vezio Castle): Kids will love climbing up to the castle and learning about its medieval history. There are also falconry shows and exhibitions, where they can see birds of prey up close.

• Lake cruises: Board a ferry or book a private boat tour for a sailing adventure of Lake Como that children are sure to enjoy.

• Garden walks: Varenna is home to some beautiful gardens that are just waiting to be explored. The gardens at Villa Monastero stretch along the lakefront and are filled with exotic plants and flowers. Or head to the nearby Villa Cipressi for terraced paths offering incredible views of the lake and surrounding scenery.

• Water sports: If you’re after something a little more active than a boat trip, then Lake Como’s calm waters are ideal for trying out stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or even sailing.

• Cycling: The area around Varenna is ideal for cycling, with various scenic routes available. Younger and older visitors may prefer a leisurely ride along the lakeside promenade, while experienced riders can head into the hills for some more challenging trails.

Free things to do in Varenna

Varenna has lots of free activities that let you enjoy the beauty of this lakeside getaway without spending a fortune. From hiking and swimming to simply soaking up the town’s vibrant atmosphere, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly options.

• Free walking tours: Lots of companies offer free walking tours of Varenna, guiding you through its history and architecture – as well as revealing its hidden gems. There are no tickets, just tip what you feel is appropriate at the end.

• Wander the lakeside promenade: One of the simplest pleasures of Varenna holidays is strolling along the waterfront and looking out across Lake Como. The Passeggiata degli Innamorati is a particularly lovely spot, and completely free to access.

• Explore the old town: Varenna’s historic centre is rich with character. Wander for free around its charming streets, stopping to pause and take in one of its peaceful squares or lakeside viewing points.